Work-Life Harmony & Failing Faster
In this episode of Be the CEO, Adam Thomas Hurd and Tom Marino dive deep into two powerful ideas that define what it really means to be the CEO of your business, your time, and your life.
They tackle the long-debated concept of work-life balance versus work-life harmony, revealing why striving for balance can actually hold entrepreneurs back. The conversation then flows into embracing failure, why “failing faster” accelerates success, and how ego often stands in the way of growth.
Packed with humor, insight, and personal stories, this episode is a reminder that being the CEO isn’t about perfection — it’s about intention, leadership, and courage to evolve.
🧠 Key Takeaways
1. Be the CEO — Don’t Just Do, Lead.
Starting a business takes courage, but sustaining one requires stepping out of constant “doing” mode and stepping into leadership. CEOs direct their focus and energy intentionally rather than reacting to every demand.
2. Work-Life Balance Is a Myth.
Tom explains why balance implies a rigid, equal division that doesn’t work for entrepreneurs. Instead, aim for work-life harmony — a fluid rhythm where attention and intention shift throughout the day based on priorities and energy.
3. The Employee vs. Entrepreneur Mindset.
Employees strive for balance through strict boundaries — clocking in and out. Entrepreneurs must instead orchestrate harmony through flexibility, discipline, and conscious time management.
4. Fail Faster, Learn Faster.
Adam shares a post from Brad Lea that sparks a conversation about missed opportunities and the power of failure. Growth happens when you take risks, fail forward, and apply lessons quickly.
5. Ego Blocks Evolution.
Many entrepreneurs stay stuck because they refuse to fail or take advice. True CEOs embrace feedback, detach from ego, and stay open to change — even when it’s uncomfortable.
💬 Memorable Quotes
“It’s not about balancing work and life — it’s about directing your attention with intention.” – Tom Marino
“You have to be willing to fail. The faster you fail, the faster you learn.” – Adam Hurd
“Harmony enhances your life — balance restricts it.” – Tom Marino
🛠️ Resources & Links
- Connect with Adam Thomas Hurd on LinkedIn
- Connect with Tom Marino on LinkedIn
- Explore the Be the CEO community: bethe.ceo
❤️ Support the Show
If this episode inspired you to be the CEO of your business and your life, leave a review, share it with your network, or message Adam and Tom on LinkedIn to tell them what resonated most.
